A new scoreboard has put the finishing touch on the revitalization of the ball diamond in Knights Brothers Park in Burk’s Falls
The Village was awarded $50,000 by the Toronto Blue Jays’ Field of Dreams program last spring with the funds to be used to upgrade the ball diamond and train coaches. Finding a contractor to complete the work needed to the infield and outfield proved to be a challenge, but Barrie’s Arene’s Construction stepped up at the last minute. The diamond also received new bleachers, benches, fencing and bases.
“We’re very excited for the upcoming season. This will be a wonderful addition,” said Burk’s Falls Mayor Chris Hope. “We want to thank the Lions Club and the John Darling family for helping us, for providing funding to get the new scoreboard in and helping us complete this ball diamond. We’re very, very grateful to them and we look forward to the coming year.”
Burk’s Falls Councillor Ryan Baptiste has led the project and also coaches the Burk’s Falls Boltz.
“What we went from before to what we have now is night and day,” Ryan told 705BLACKFLY.COM. “It’s fantastic. It’s safer, it’s nicer, it’s cleaner. We have other municipalities wanting to use this field now which is an awesome, tiny little revenue stream for us.”
After publishing previous stories about the ballpark, 705BLACKFLY.COM received comments from readers saying that efforts should have been directed elsewhere. Last week, a video posted to social media raised concerns about the poor condition of the fencing around the dog park next to the ball diamond. Councillor Ashley Brandt is in the early stages of a fundraising campaign for the dog park and is looking for public input. You can email your suggestions to AshleyforCouncil@outlook.com or contact her on Facebook.
In the meantime – Burk’s Falls is preparing for its tree lighting ceremony. You can take part by making a personalized ornament. For more on the ball diamond and upcoming Christmas celebrations, check out our video!
